World-famous shoe and handbag designer Stuart Weitzman will lend his artistic expertise when he returns to Haverhill at noon on Thursday, August 18. Weitzman will join Massachusetts Cultural Council Executive Director Anita Walker to take part in a community paint session for the Essex Street Gateway mural, titled “Hues of the Heart,”. This 4 story work of art will feature Stuart Weitzman’s profile as one of many images of notable people who have ties to Haverhill. His father, Seymour, created Seymour Shoes (also sold as Mr. Seymour, in the 50s) with a factory in Haverhill.

The mural, “Hues of the Heart,” is inspired by a John Greenleaf Whittier poem entitled “A Lament”. Taking inspiration from Whittier’s passionate and timeless language, the Essex Gateway Mural consists of elements that address the unique aspects of our community–heritage and history, social and physical infrastructure, and future direction. Historical and contemporary images will combine in a composite image addressing themes that emerged from discussion with citizens and research in Haverhill. This work of art addresses the question of how a city with a rich history can embrace its roots and engage with its future with equal passion.

When the Essex Gateway Mural is completed next fall it will span 3,000 square feet and cover the entire four stories of the wall at 25 Essex Street. The Essex Gateway Mural is a project of Team Haverhill, which invited community participation from concept to implementation. The mural has been funded in part by Mass. Cultural Council, area banks, foundations, and community fundraising. The mural was designed by nationally acclaimed artists Meg Saligman and James Shuster of Meg Saligman Studio in Philadelphia. Team Haverhill has also invited State Senator Steven Baddour of Methuen, Representative Brian Dempsey of Haverhill, and Haverhill Mayor James Fiorentini to attend the Aug. 18 ceremony.

“I’m delighted to return to Haverhill to see the progress the city has made in revitalizing its downtown through the arts,” said Walker. “This mural is a great example of how artists use the past to help a community imagine a better future.”

Photos credit of Bharat Parmar Photography

A sunny and spectacular Sunday morning welcomed over 2,000 spectators to witness some of the most exclusive cars on the East Coast. The North Shore Concours d’Elegance, presented by the Lyon-Waugh Auto Group, has emerged as the premier must-attend summer happening in New England and filled the Endicott College Misselwood Estate grounds with concours level cars and motorcycles, as well as a series of fashion shows, musical entertainment and art displays, with the Atlantic Ocean forming a spectacular backdrop.

The boutique show hosted dozens of unique and rare cars, such as an original 1954 Bugatti A6 GCS Barchetta that has run the infamous Mille Miglia; a fully restored 1910 Oakland 24 Roadster of which only 3 are known to exist worldwide and has participated in the Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance; or even a 1932 Duesenberg SJ Dual Cowl Phaeton, property of the Collings Foundation.

Patrick Cornelissen, Director of Operations at Endicott College and organizer of the North Shore Concours d’Elegance was thrilled with the results. “This year’s event was outstanding, from the sponsors to the car

owners to the general public; everyone had an incredible time,” he says. “With an event of this stature, we know that Endicott’s Misselwood Estate lives up to its expectations and creates that unique boutique setting a show of this caliber looks for.”

“Not only did we have an amazing field of concours cars, we also noted that the adjacent collector car area was filled with both newer and vintage Marmon,  Lamborghini, Porsche, Ferrari, Buick, Bentley, Rolls Royce and even a 1953 Harvester International Crop Duster Tractor,” Cornelissen mentioned. “The collector car area was something new this year, and several people already asked how they can be part of this for next year. Since this is an area open to all cars, I just have one advice: just show up early”.

Cornelissen has been working with Assistant Operations Manger Dustin Cano on all the small details that go into running a high class event of this magnitude. “Just on Saturday night we had 200 guest enjoying a beautiful oceanfront wedding and 8 hours later, the same grounds were filled with million dollar cars. It’s just part of what event planning is all about”, says Cornelissen, who also teaches at Endicott’s School of Hospitality Management.

The entire property was buzzing with excitement as people not only enjoyed the cars, but also were watching fashion shows, taking historical house tours or perusing jewelry and watches at the Long’s – Rolex Pavilion, while others were admiring the brand new cars from the Lyon-Waugh Auto Group. “I can’t think of a better way to spend a day than admiring historic cars along what used to be referred to as the ‘Gold Coast’ and raising funds to help young people continue their education,” said Warren Waugh, co-founder of the Lyon-Waugh Auto Group. “Last year, the event had everything from a 1904 Grout Steamer to a 1932 Chrysler Imperial and this year’s cars were even more unique. It was a fantastic gathering and I’m already looking forward to next year’s event.”

Photos credit of Bharat Parmar Photography

For being a relative young show, the North Shore Concours d’Elegance has already earned a solid reputation among concours owners, who noted that the setting outshines even some of the more prestigious concours events nationwide. The combination of the ocean, sloping lawns and the intimate setting created by limiting the number of concours cars, all make this show one of the best of its kind.

The event culminated at the award ceremony, with 11 best in class and 1 best of show trofees to be awarded. Bob DeSantis and Rick Beecoff were instrumental this year in leading the team of judges and making the very difficult choices of which cars to select for each category. “It is all about the beauty”, says Bob. “If we were to use a point-based system, we probably see other cars win; however, at a concours show the goals are different, as we award winners based on aesthetics and historical significance. We were thrilled with this year’s quality of the cars, and it sure reflects in the awards that were handed out”.

This year’s Best of Show award went to a 1932 Duesenberg SJ Dual Cowl Phaeton, owned by the Collings Foundation in Stow, Ma. The car, considered by Fred Collins to be the jewel of the foundation’s collection not only exemplified the stateliness of its era, but also showcased the ultimate performance and luxury of the 30’s. What makes this particular car even more remarkable is that it was Fred Duesenberg’s personal car. The judges awarded this car “Best of Show” due to its outstanding condition and restoration.

The North Shore Concours d’Elegance takes place every last Sunday in July. For more information on how to become a sponsor for the 2012 edition, please contact Patrick Cornelissen at pcorneli@endicott.edu.

Video of Event

On Wednesday, September 14, 2011, Essex County Club of Manchester-By-The-Sea will again host the Drive Away Hunger Golf Classic to benefit the many programs of Beverly Bootstraps Community Services.  All proceeds from this event will support the important work of Beverly Bootstraps Community Services enabling them to provide critical resources to families and individuals so they may achieve self-sufficiency including:  access to food, housing stability, adult and youth education, counseling and advocacy.

Registration begins at 10am followed by lunch with a noon shot gun start.  After the outing, golfers will enjoy cocktails and dinner in the club house where golf prizes will be awarded and where a raffle and auction will be held.

To reserve a space ($350/golfer or $75 for dinner only), or to sponsor this event, please contact Amy Murphy at 978-927-1561 or send an email to amurphy@beverlybootstraps.org.

CONTACT:
Amy Murphy, Development and Office Supervisor
Beverly Bootstraps Community Services, Inc.
371 Cabot Street
Beverly, MA 01915
978-927-1561

Interested in becoming part of one of the most exciting music festivals on the North Shore?

Become a volunteer for the Salem Jazz and Soul Festival, a free two-day concert on Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 20 & 21 at the Salem Willows that will showcase national acts such as Bonerama, Big Sam’s Funky Nation, Charles Neville, as well as the hottest jazz performers and combos from the Boston and North Shore area.

There are a number of rewarding volunteer opportunities to support the Salem Jazz and Soul Festival whose main mission is to support local music education programs. To learn more follow the link: www.salemjazzsoul.org/2011_volunteer.html, or email volunteers@salemjazzsoul.com

What: North Shore Concours d’Elegance

Where: Misselwood Estate at Endicott College

When: Sunday July 31, 11am-4pm

Who: Young and young at heart; suitable for all ages

Why: To benefit student scholarships

$: $10 general admission ($6 Beverly residents/endicott alumni), kids under 12 free

Lauded by car aficionados as one of the best shows in New England, the North Shore Concours d’Elegance returns in 2011 to the oceanfront Misselwood Estate at Endicott College. Presented by the Lyon-Waugh Auto Group, the event will be held on Sunday July 31st and will attract thousands of people to view some of the most elegant cars and motorcycles of their decade.

The Concours d’Elegance will open up to the public at 11am and throughout the day there will be musical entertainment, jewelry, watches and fashion shows at the Long’s Jewelers-Rolex pavilion, food and wine, as well as art displays culminating into the awards ceremony at 3pm. Located on the waterfront, the Misselwood Estate offers unsurpassed views of the Atlantic Ocean, which forms an incredible backdrop for iconic cars and motorcycles and will turn the event in a great family friendly Sunday.

Based on feedback from participants and spectators, the 2011 show will feature a collector car parking area adjacent to the concours field, whereby everyone who reserves in advance can display their special car. “We understand that not everyone has a concours level car, and really wanted to give other people the opportunity to display their cars as well,” says founder Patrick Cornelissen.  “The North Shore Concours d’ Elegance turned heads last year. We have a tremendous lineup of classic vehicles, motorcycles & scooters and people are very moved and motivated about the entire show”. Head judges Bob DeSantis and Rick Beecoff will be lending their expertise again this year in leading the concours awards.

Besides classic Jaguars, Ferrari’s, Porsche’s, Alfa Romeo’s or BMW’s, people can expect noteworthy cars such as a 1932 Duesenberg SJ Dual-Cowl Phaeton; a Pebble Beach Concours winning 1932 Cadillac 355B, a 1950 Bentley Mark VI Drop Head Coupe Convertible believed to be one of two DHC’s built in 1950 by Graber of Switzerland or even a 1970 Ford Torino GT 429 Convertible; one of possible 3 left in existence.

As the North Shore concours d’Elegance is organized by and held on the grounds of Endicott College, funds from ticket sales will go directly towards Endicott scholarships benefitting current and future students and allowing them to pursue their higher educational dreams. To order tickets in advance contact Endicott’s Conference Services at 978-232-2128 or at confer@endicott.edu/concours.

Merriam-Webster introduced the word “staycation” into its dictionary just as the recession officially ended in 2009 and more vacationers were opting to stay at or closer to home. With gas prices still high and the aftereffects of the recession still being felt by many, staycation is a buzzword that is here to stay.

According to The Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism, more than 35% of residents travel within the state each summer. ABC News just reported that a recent Marist Poll found that 55% of adults said they will not be booking a summer vacation this year, with the remaining saying they will take several shorter weekend trips (18%), take one or more long getaways (16%), or will do both or “other” (11%).

For those who are staying close to home or just looking for some new mid-summer ideas and adventures, The Trustees of Reservations (The Trustees) — the nation’s oldest statewide land conservation organization with 105 beautiful reservations located around the state — offer countless fun ideas to add to your summer “to do” list, many of which are free. Most of these ideas can be done less than a tank-full of gas — or better yet, on your energy-independent bicycle – and are free or heavily discounted for Trustees members:

Hike a mountain trail and explore a hidden waterfall

·                      Camp in a pristine setting by a beautiful lake

·                      Take a guided kayak tour or self-guided sunset paddle

·                      Head outdoors on a “quest” or scavenger hunt with your kids

·                      Visit a historic house museum and take a “behind-the-scenes” tour

·                      Volunteer as a family at a local Trustees property or nearby farm to clear harmful invasives species; maintain hiking trails; or plant, weed and harvest fresh produce for local farmers markets and food pantries

·                      Escape to a charming B&B with a view in the Berkshires or on Boston’s North Shore

·                      Visit a beautiful beach and explore through the dunes of a national wildlife refuge

·                      Stroll through a the glorious gardens of a historic homestead or National Historic Landmark

·                      Picnic under the stars and enjoy an open air concert with family and friends

·                      Tour a renovated “green” building and learn about energy saving ideas you can implement in your own home

·                      Explore the islands on an a natural history, sunset lighthouse, or fishing tour

For more information visit our website at www.thetrustees.org

The Trustees of Reservations (The Trustees) today announced the latest offering from their Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program at Moraine Farm: the Late Season Farm Share.  Late-season farm shares include 13 weeks of fresh, locally grown veggies beginning the first week of August and running through the month of October. Veggies to be expected in the share include broccoli, beets, Brussel sprouts, carrots, cucumbers, eggplant, herbs, onions, leeks, potatoes, summer squash, tomatoes, winter squash, watermelon, and much more! Pick your own cherry tomatoes, husk cherries, and tomatillos.  Shareholders can choose to pick up their share on Monday, Wednesday, or Friday between the hours of 2 PM and 7 PM at the farm, located at 735 Cabot Street, Beverly.  Full shares cost $300 for Trustees members and $350 for Trustees non members (which includes a family level membership, a $67 value). For more information visit our website at www.thetrustees.org/morainefarm where you can read more about the farm, the CSA, and sign up online.  Registration for the Late Season Share ends July 27^th so sign up now!

More about The Trustees of Reservations

The Trustees are 100,000 members like you who love the outdoors and the distinctive charms of New England, and believe in celebrating and protecting them for current and future generations. Founded by open space visionary Charles Eliot in 1891, The Trustees “hold in trust,” and care for, 105 spectacular “reservations” located on more than 26,000 acres in 75 communities throughout Massachusetts. All Trustees reservations are open for the public to enjoy and range from working farms and historic homesteads – several of which are National Historic Landmarks – to formal gardens, barrier beaches, open meadows, woodland trails, and mountain vistas.

Ward Five City Councilor Brendan Crighton, the Office of Economic and Community Development, and Inspectional Services Department have teamed up with Raw Art Works and local artists to create public displays of art in Downtown Lynn.

On Saturday July 23^rd from 10am-2pm, artists participating in RAW’s Good 2 Go program will be painting murals on five utility boxes located in the Downtown’s Central Square.  The murals were all designed by local artists under the supervision of RAW’s Jason Cruz, who runs the Good 2 Go program. This program began in 2005 with five of RAW’s original members who were part of the group Men 2 Be at the time.  Their first public art project was on Union street in a lot owned by a friend of RAW.  The program allows young men the opportunity to use their artistic talents to get noticed in positive ways, while beautifying their community. Good 2 Go has rules, expectations and each member is a teacher as well as a student.  Additionally the program provides temporary youth employment as the artists are compensated for their work.

Since the beginning Jason has hoped the program would take on the task of beautifying the city’s many utility boxes.  The five boxes surrounding RAW in Central Square will serve as a pilot program for the city-wide project.  For this project RAW has brought back two alumni of Good 2 Go, Dano and Derek Chapman.  The rest of the team, of which every member’s role is important as the next, consists of Jorge Pimentel, Omar Young, Francisco Vasquez, Damien Coley, Kadeem Dally, Dariel Valdez, Luis Deleon, Rafael Gonzalez, and Ryan Karakudos.

Jamie Marsh, the Director of Lynn’s Community Development office was able to provide funding for the art supplies.  Dottie Thibodeau of Lynn’s Inspectional Services Department helped to coordinate the cleaning of the utility boxes as well as priming them to be painted. These city officials and Councilor Crighton worked with Cruz to develop the mural theme of “Arts and Culture”, which tied in well with the efforts to get Lynn designated as a Cultural District by the MA Cultural Council.

Saturday, October 15, 2011, 11am-4pm. In Advance: $15, Day of Event: Members $ 20. Tickets include a tour map and admission to the museum galleries

Tour extraordinary kitchens in distinctive historic and contemporary homes throughout the North Shore on the Wenham Museum’s 4th annual Heart of the Home Kitchen Tour on Saturday, October 15, from 11a.m. to 4p.m.

This benefit tour highlights home and interior design in the room that is the heart of every home—the kitchen. From traditional to contemporary style kitchens, the Heart of the Home Kitchen Tour features a variety of design solutions for every modern family. Begin or end your tour with a visit to the cooking hearth in the museum’s c.1690 Claflin-Richards House and discover how families lived and cooked more than three centuries ago.

Tickets for the Heart of the Home Kitchen Tour may be purchased by calling the Museum at 978-468-2377. Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 the day of the event. Group rates are available with pre-registration. For more information, visit www.wenhammuseum.org. Tickets include admission to the museum’s galleries and proceeds from the tour will benefit the museum’s educational programs and exhibitions.

Kaminski Auctions of Beverly, Ma will host its Summer Asian Art auction on August 18th, 19th and 20th, 2011 Thursday, Friday and Saturday. The auction will start at 6:00 pm on Thursday and at 9:00 am on Friday and Saturday.

Ben Wang, Head of Kaminski’s Arts of Asia Department, has put together an exciting collection of Chinese porcelain, paintings, jade, cloisonné and furniture for this sale. Also included are numerous Japanese, Indian and Tibetan works of art.

A Chinese 18th century famille rose jar from the Qianlong period (1735- 1796) decorated with lotus scrolls on a turquoise ground, with a six character Qianlong mark on the base is the top valued lot in the sale with an estimate of $25,000-$50,000.

One of the most exciting lots in the sale is sure to be a 20th century painting by Qi Baishi (1863-1957) of a crane, that is ink and color on paper and mounted on silk. Its provenance includes the collection of Alice Boney, the prominent American Asian art dealer and noted advisor to museums and collectors of Chinese and Japanese art. A portfolio of sketches by the Chinese artist Wu Guanzhong, that was dedicated to Alice Boney, sold for over $240,000 in Kaminski’s April 2011 Asian auction.

Another Wu Guanzhong (1919-2010) painting of fish, that is ink on paper and signed by the artist in the lower right, will feature prominently in this sale as well, with an estimate of $20,000-$30,000. There is an important collection of handmade carved wooden stands, consigned by a private collector and originally purchased by the well-known Asian dealer C.T. Loo, after World War II. C.T. Loo ran a shop at 41 East 57th Street in New York City for many years. These rare and exquisitely carved stands were handmade to display prized pieces of porcelain, jade, and bronze works of art.

Many wonderful pieces in the sale are from the estate of Charles Rose Thompson of Westfield, New Jersey. Thompson, a graduate of Phillips Academy and Princeton University, was a decorator and ran an import business of oriental rugs from China in the 1940’s and 50’s. During his extensive travels throughout Asia for Bollentin & Thompson Oriental Rugs of New York City, Thompson amassed an extraordinary collection of rare porcelain, bronze and jade, which he loaned for many years to the Princeton Museum for display.

There is also an exquisite pair of cloisonné candlesticks from the 19th Century, decorated with prancing deer form bodies and lotus scrolls on a turquoise ground estimated at $9000- $10,000. Also included is an important Song Dynasty Ding Yao ware bowl decorated with two phoenixes flanked by floral scrolls surrounding a central floral medallion, all carved in shallow relief and estimated at $5000-$6000.

A Chinese 19th Century Huanghuali folding screen with inlaid mother-of –pearl flowers and birds representing the four seasons estimated at $3,000-$5,000 is sure to bring substantial interest. Chinese and Asian auctions will feature prominently in Kaminski’s auction calendar going forward. Asian expert Ben Wang has been  traveling in China extensively this month promoting this sale and another to follow at the beginning of December.

Kaminski’s last Asian auction which followed the highly successful Asia Week event in NYC, attracted important collectors from all over the U.S. and China. You will not want to miss this incredible summer auction at the new Kaminski auction gallery. For more information or to purchase a full color catalog please visit our website at www.kaminskiauctions.com, or call the main office at 98-927-2223

The 11^th Annual Newburyport Kitchen Tour will take place on Saturday, July 30^th from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.  This hugely popular fundraiser benefits the Newburyport Elementary PTO.  You are invited to visit eleven of Newburyport’s most fabulous kitchens.  Kitchens were chosen based on originality, design, and functionality.

This year’s tour has an incredible line up.  It will feature eleven uniquely different homes, including a beach house, many restored antiques, new construction, and a converted church.  Although kitchens are the focus of the tour, tour attendees can also enjoy a peek into other first floor living spaces.

If you are looking for ideas for a renovation, want a few tips, or enjoy looking at original and beautiful design, this tour is a must.  Grab a friend and enjoy a great day in Newburyport!

Tickets are $20 and available for purchase at www.NewburyportKitchenTour.com.  You can also purchase tickets at Fowles Market on High St, Fowles’s Café on State St, Souffle’s in Market Square, Lynch Pharmacy on High St, and the Newburyport Chamber of Commerce.  Tickets are non-refundable, and the tour is held rain or shine.

This year’s Executive Sponsors are William Raveis, the Dolores Person Group; B&G Cabinets, LLC; and The Institution for Savings.

For additional information about the Newburyport Kitchen Tour, visit www.newburyportkitchentour.com or check us out on Facebook. The Newburyport Elementary PTO is a non-profit organization of committed parents, teachers and administrators dedicated to enriching the Newburyport Elementary Schools. All proceeds from the Tour support and enhance the schools.

For more information about the event or photo opportunities, CONTACT: Deb Pare, dpare@comcast.net, www.newburyportkitchentour.com

Join Mayor Kimberley Driscoll on a tour of three of Salem’s hot dining spots: Café Polonia, Adriatic Restaurant & Bar, and The Great Escape Restaurant. The event, a Mayor’s Night Out Restaurant hors d’oeurves Sampler, gives residents a unique opportunity to spend time with the mayor. The event is one of many great events put on by the city of Salem as part of Heritage Days.

The event takes place Monday, August 8; from 5:00 – 7:00 pm. Cost to participate is $20 with proceeds to benefit Salem Main Streets.  Salem Main Streets is a non-profit organization with the goal of revitalizing downtown Salem as a vibrant year-round retail, dining and cultural destination.  Pre-registration for the event is required.

‘Mayor’s Night Out’ will start at Café Polonia on 118 Washington Street (5:00pm – 5:30pm); known for their German, Hungarian, and Eastern European food. The next stop on the sampler tour is The Adriatic Restaurant and Bar, 155 Washington Street (5:45pm – 6:15pm), known for serving fine food in a relaxed atmosphere.  The final stop on Mayor’s Night out is the Great Escape Restaurant, 50 St. Peter Street, a jail themed restaurant with outdoor dining (6:30 – 7:00pm).

This is an opportunity for residents to spend time with Mayor Driscoll and sample appetizers at a few of the many outstanding restaurants in downtown Salem, while supporting the efforts of Salem Main Streets and downtown revitalization. Other SMS events include the Salem Farmers’ Market, Salem Arts Festival, Salem’s So Sweet and the Ice Scream Bowl. For more information or to pre-register contact the Salem Chamber of Commerce or Salem Main Streets at (978)744-0004 or Jennifer@salemmainstreets.org.

Christos Douroudis of SUP East Coast Style tells (and shows!) me why stand up paddle boarding is the new summer must-do activity. By, Lauren Carelli

Summer is all about the aquatic activities and surfing has been a favorite on the east coast for years. Ranging from knee high waves up in New Hampshire to five-foot tunnels on the Cape, it really is the perfect sport if you want to feel like you are floating on water. However, lately it seems as if a new kind of surfing is taking over. First there was wind surfing, kite surfing, the traditional long and short board surfing then we were introduced to skim boarding, but the new trend of 2011 seems to be stand up surfing, or better known as SUP. After watching many people attempt (and fail) to master the new form of walking on water, I decided enough was enough and I was going to give it a try.

Through research I came across SUP East Coast Style located in Marblehead and I immediately reached out to owners Leah Goodman and Christos Douroudis. After a quick email looking to get basic information I was pleasantly surprised when they told me to come down whenever I wanted to get a lesson. Without hesitation I signed myself up for the next available session, which happened to be a sunset paddle. I brought one of our interns, Brianna Lapolla, with me so she could check it out as well and act as a filter in case I made a huge fool of myself. We each made the 30 minute drive, met co-owner Christos and before we knew it we were knee deep in the water learning how to mount the massive 12-foot boards.

The teaching part took all of five minutes. Christos took us through the process step by step and to sum it up: it’s a combination of kayaking and surfing, with a hint of yoga. Balancing is the hardest part but once my feet were set and Christos reassured me that a majority of people do not fall off, I knew I was good to go. Christos took us all around Marblehead showing us different islands and where he has gone on long two to three hour paddles. We paddled by boats and spectators all the while soaking up the last and very warm rays of the day. As the sun lowered, I found myself drifting along the water feeling weightless and observing my surroundings. Boats and endless water to my left, trees and peaceful beaches to my right. During this time only one thought came to my mind, tranquility. It was one of the most peaceful activities I have done and Christos reassured me it was nothing compared to a sunrise paddle, which I fully intend on experiencing.

Christos with one of the 12ft boards

The water was calm enough to make the first time experience easy, but the quick change of wind challenged our arm strength and balance once or twice. Unfortunately for Brianna a wave caught her off guard and she tumbled into the water, gracefully of course. The trooper she is, she got right back on her board with zero hesitation and paddled past myself and Christos, quickly redeeming herself.

We only stayed out an hour, but it was long enough to feel the burn in my shoulder blades and stomach. Not only was this activity fun but also it was an incredible work out. I paddled into shore and couldn’t help but ask myself why I hadn’t done this sooner, better yet, how had I not known about it sooner. After bringing in all the boards I had a chance to pick Christos’s brain about SUP and his growing business, East Coast Style.

How has the business been going since opening? It has been phenomenal, we have only been open since June but it’s actually blown up to the point where we have already had to hire extra help.

Do you feel like a lot of people are receptive to paddle boarding? Absolutely, it is gaining a ton of popularity on the east coast. There is a small handful of people here that own their own boards, but most people that come to us for lessons or rentals, its their first time trying it.

Why do you think people are just now catching on to this on the East Coast? I am really not sure. I think from people seeing a couple people doing it and being curious and asking about it and wondering what it is, that slowly got people to try it, and it grew from there.

Do most people pick it up quickly or is there usually someone struggling? There have been some people who fall off a couple times at the beginning but for the most part 90% of the people who are doing it for the first time get up and stay up. What is great about it is that it is not extremely technical. It’s a matter of the person getting on the board and getting comfortable with it, but I haven’t had one person yet get up and not be able to stay up.

What is your favorite part about paddle boarding? My favorite part is that I am doing something I love and it’s phenomenal because I get to introduce a very new and cool sport to people around here who don’t necessarily know anything about it or who have heard about it but never tried it. It’s rewarding to get people out there who have never done it before and have them be successful at it.

In your mind, what is so special about SUP? Once you get comfortable with it, it is a very calming and serene type of thing. Especially when I go out for sunrise or sunset when the water is glassy and calm, it is just a peaceful type of sport.

How long do you plan on doing this for? I want to do it every summer season. In our business plan we want to have it become a franchise, but I am going to ride the wave as long as I can, not to get all metaphorical. As long as the demand is there, we’re going to keep doing it and we do hope to grow and expand.

About SUP East Coast Style After developing an immediate love for the aquatic sport, Christos Douroudis, 29, and fiancé Leah Beth Goodman, 29, created their own company to introduce the Hawaiian teachings of stand up surfing to locals and travelers of all ages. Starting close to a month ago, Goodman and Douroudis planned on maintaining their business out of their pick-up truck, but when the opportunity came about to use space at the Little Harbor Boathouse in Marblehead, they took advantage of it. Since being there in June the business has flourished with first timers and regulars. They offer hourly lessons, rentals, youth camps and they will start offering fitness classes on the board. Find them on Facebook at facebook.com/pages/SUP-East-Coast-Style/

The prestigious London Boys Choir from Merchant Taylor School will perform in Salem Thursday, July 21 at 7:30 p.m. in Old Town Hall to celebrate the school’s founding 450 years ago. It is a free concert but they will be accepting donations which they will contribute to the Salem Farmers’ Market. Mayor Kimberley Driscoll will introduce the choir and welcome them to Salem.

The Choir of 48 boys (ages 11 – 18) are on a singing tour to celebrate the school’s founding in 1651 and are pleased to be able to sing in the historic seaport town of Salem. Salem’s Old Town Hall will be the venue for a this special free concert on the evening of Thursday, July 21.  “We are thrilled to have a choir of this caliber performing in downtown Salem,” stated Jennifer Bell, Salem Main Streets Manager and organizer of the Salem Farmers’ Market. “We are delighted they chose to perform on farmers’ market night and to offer all donations to the market,” Bell adds.

The school is one of the oldest in the UK, founded by the Merchant Taylors’ Guild of the 1500’s. It has a long, prestigious, and proud history.  Over the centuries, Merchant Taylor choirs have frequently sung in St Paul’s, London and in many other Cathedrals and halls in the UK and Europe. The choir is lucky have had many excellent conductors over the years. Currently their conductor is Richard Hobson, a former Cathedral chorister, one of UK’s well-known organists and a former Council member of the British Institute of Organ Studies, and adviser on organs to the Diocese of London. He brings great knowledge and discipline to the choir.

In special celebration of the 450^th anniversary of the founding of their school in 1651, they decided to tour in the USA. They are performing in St. John the Divine Cathedral, St Thomas Church, and at St Paul’s Chapel, Ground Zero in New York (they particularly requested Ground Zero in honor and respect of  the tenth anniversary year of the attack on the twin towers). They chose Salem due to its long history -  What better place than Salem: an historic place that was founded just a few years before their school. They will be performing both secular and sacred music both ancient and modern. You will be delighted by the variety of sound and selection of their performance. As they wanted to leave something of benefit to Salem, the concert is free but if you wish to make a donation at the concert the proceeds will be given to the Salem Farmers’ Market.

For more information about the choir and their tour contact:

Julia Bjarnason 416 497-2870, jmbjarnason@sympatico.ca on behalf of Merchant Taylors and Anne Cottrell Tours Inc.

The Boston Lobsters’ World TeamTennis season begins on Tuesday, July 5 at Ferncroft Country Club against the visiting New York Sportimes in a rematch of last year’s semifinals. Members of the media are invited to visit the Lobsters’ VIP Hospitality tent before the match. The pre-match press conference will be held at the stadium from 6:10-6:20 p.m. Jan-Michael Gambill begins his fourth season with the Lobsters, who also return CoCo Vandeweghe, and Eric Butorac for their second straight stints in Boston, along with newcomer Mashona Washington. The Sportimes return the third-best men’s doubles team in the league from last season in Robert Kendrick and Jesse Witten.

Opening night is presented by CoCo Key Hotel in partnership with the Salem News and will also include special recognition to those who give back to our communities. For more information about the Boston Lobsters and for ticket information, please visit bostonlobsters.net

On Friday, June 24, 2011, at 6pm, The Book Nook at River’s Edge will host local author and historian Tom Juergens.  Juergens will be on hand to read from and discuss his latest book, “Wicked Puritans of Essex County”.

In early seventeenth-century Massachusetts, Essex County was home to growing populations of Puritans. These purportedly straight-laced, God-fearing men and women had ventured to the New World to purify their church from within and used drastic measures, including hangings, to achieve that goal.

But the purification–and Puritan doctrine itself–was actually surprisingly unpopular. A number of sinful, impious and deadly individuals broke the Puritan mold in other ways, too. They have long been forgotten–until now.

Local historian Tom Juergens shines new light on the Puritan era with a collection of poignant–and sordid–stories that reveal ugly truths behind whippings, brandings, mutilations and state-sponsored executions, all in the name of faith!

Established in 1998, the award-winning River’s Edge is located at 15 Market Street in downtown Ipswich. The newly-expanded Book Nook at River’s Edge offers an eclectic collection of quirky and classic books. For more information about the store and upcoming events, please call (978)356-2363, email Paul Allen-Webber at paul@riversegdegift.com, or visit www.riversedgegift.com or www.facebook.com/thebooknook.

Marblehead, MA – SUP East Coast Style is launching its first season bringing the fastest growing water sport to Marblehead, MA with a variety of classes for
adults, teens, and children ages 6 and up along with a free Learn-To-Paddle Event for the community on June 25, 2011 from 4-7pm.

Stand Up Paddle Boarding (SUP) is an ancient form of surfing used by Hawaiians while teaching groups of people how to surf.  By standing on their boards
using a one bladed paddle the ancients had a birds-eye view increasing their visibility of what was going on around them.  As one of the fastest growing sports in the world, SUP is a cross between a kayak and surfboard used by young and old alike.

Christos Douroudis & Leah Beth Goodman, Owners of SUP East Coast Style, have teamed up with Maryellen Auger, owner of Little Harbor Boathouse Open Water Rowing & Paddling Center, located at 40 Doaks Lane on Little Harbor, Marblehead, MA to provide their Stand Up Paddle Board program as a different type of water sport that is quickly growing in popularity the world over.  “We are very excited to be teaming up with the Little Harbor Boathouse because it will give people a beautifully scenic and fun central location to learn and experience various water sports such as rowing and stand up paddling, “explained Christos.

Leah adds, “I learned how to stand up paddle in Hawaii and I am very much looking forward to bringing this amazing sport to the East Coast, especially Marblehead where I grew up, and teaching and sharing it to people so they can see why it is currently the fastest growing sport across the world.” Leah has been paddling for over 6 years and introduced it to Christos 3 years ago.

SUP East Coast Style will be offering classes for all age groups this season starting at the age of 6 and up.  There will be 1 hour instructional classes between the hours of 8am to 7pm Sunday through Monday where Christos & Leah will be instructing people on the basics of Stand Up Paddling.  There will also be 3 hour guided tours offered, also 7 days per week.  Morning Tours will be from 9am to 12pm and Afternoon Tours will be from 1pm to 4pm.  These Guided Tours will consist of Paddling and exploring the local Marblehead waters.  Sunrise and Sunset Paddles will also be offered by appointment.  Christos & Leah are also extremely excited and eager to bring Fitness & Yoga classes to the water, all on the Paddle Boards.
SUP East Coast Style is offering a free Learn-To-Paddle Event on Saturday June 25 from 4-7pm in order to kick off the 2011 season.  Christos explains, “We are inviting everyone to come down to Little Harbor Boathouse to see the Paddle Boards, meet myself and Leah, register for Stand-up Paddle-boarding and Rowing programs, and get out on the water for a paddle.”

June 9th from 6-9 at Urban Elements in Salem

On Sunday May 15, 2011, the Salem Waterfront Hotel & Suites will host the Jazzy Blues Brunch with Mayor Kim Driscoll – a fundraising event to support Salem Main Streets – a non-profit organization whose goal is the revitalization of downtown Salem as a vibrant year-round, retail, dining and cultural destination.

With a tantalizing full brunch buffet and live jazz music provided by local sensation Whose Muddy Shoes, Jazzy Blues Brunch will take place from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at 225 Derby Street on Pickering Wharf. This year’s event is sponsored in part by The Salem Waterfront Hotel, Eastern Bank, the Peabody Essex Museum, Bernard’s Jewelers, Pamplemousse, Signatures, Ron Elken Computer Doctor and Betsy Day.

“At Salem Main Streets, we’re excited about the first annual Jazzy Blues Brunch. We hope many Salem residents and neighbors attend this fun event,” states Jennifer Bell, Salem Main Streets Manager. “The funds that are raised will enable us to continue wonderful initiatives that serve the community. These initiatives include the upcoming Salem Farmers’ Market, Salem Arts Festival, Salem Health and Wellness Week, Haunted Happenings and the Salem Information Booth. I would like thank our event sponsors and Mayor Driscoll for her ongoing support,” she concludes.

Tickets for Jazzy Blues Brunch are $35 per person and are available in advance at the Salem Chamber of Commerce at 265 Essex Street in Salem, at Rouge Cosmetics on Derby Street or by calling 978-744-0004. More information on Jazzy Blues Brunch and on Salem Main Streets is available at www.salemmainstreets.org.

Salem Main Streets is a 501c3 non-profit organization which organized and continues to manage the Salem Farmers’ Market, Salem Health and Wellness Week, Salem Arts Festival and the Visitor Ambassador Program in October among other programs. SMS coordinates the downtown window contests, holiday wreaths and downtown holiday tree, the In Salem, Green is the New Black Reusable Tote Bags, Salem’s So Sweet, Salem’s Ice Scream Bowl and is an active organizer for many other events and programs. Supporters of this fundraiser through sponsorships or attendance help Salem Main Streets continue important programs and expand programming for the downtown.

Don’t miss one of the biggest warehouse sales at Viola Lovely!

Thursday, June 9, 7:30 pm: RCMF Opening Night

The Rockport Chamber Music Festival’s opening night will feature pianist David Deveau, cellist Andres Diaz, violinist Anne Akiko Meyers, and the Ikarus Chamber Players, performing works by Beethoven and Mendelssohn, as well as David Alpher’s new Songs Without Words, commissioned in memory of festival co-founder Lila Deis. 

Friday, June 10, 8 pm: Mozart & Tchaikovsky

Wendy Chen and David Deveau will bring to life Mozart’s energetic and playful Sonata in C for Piano Duet. Andres Diaz will then explore Xi Wang’s evocative Rhapsody for solo cello; piano will be joined by cello and Akiko Meyers on violin for Tchaikovsky’s Piano Trio in A minor. 

Saturday, June 11, 8 pm: Stefan Jackiw, Violin, and Gilles Vonsattel, piano

Gilles Vonsattel, “An impressive…and dynamic virtuoso” and favorite at the Rockport Chamber Music Festival, with Stefan Jackiw, praised for his “flawless technique, precocious musical understanding, and sweet, singing tone,” will collaborate on works by Brahms, Stravinsky and Strauss; Vonsattel will perform Dallapiccola’s Sonatina Canonica for solo piano. 

Sunday, June 12, 5PM: A Fry Cry – The Self-Conducted Chamber Orchestra

Writes Strings Magazine of A Far Cry, the group has “perfected a lush, sweet sound that is achingly alive and emotional.” Appointed Chamber Orchestra in Residence for 2010 at the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, the young chamber group also tours across the United States and was praised by the Boston Globe for their “high musical standards and unbridled idealism.” 

Thursday, June 16, 8PM: Jupiter String Quartet

The Jupiter String Quartet, described by Allan Kozinn as playing “with lush tone, a fine sense of color and both energy and polish,” will begin their week-long residency in Rockport with two works by Beethoven and Gyorgy Kurtag’s 12 Microludes. The ensemble has appeared many times at the Rockport Chamber Music Festival and is welcomed back for their second year at the Shalin Liu. 

Friday, June 17, 8PM: Marc-Andre Hamelin, piano

The Australian praises Marc-Andre Hamelin, writing that he ranges from “the toweringly powerful to the sweetly magical …it was entrancing.” Hamelin will perform solo piano pieces from Haydn’s energetic Piano Sonata in E minor to the work of Franz Liszt and Ravel’s Gaspard de la nuit. 

Saturday, June 18, 8PM: Jupiter String Quartet, Mark Nuccio, clarinet, and David Deveau, piano

The Jupiter will explore quartets by Bartok and Beethoven. The quartet are accomplished players of these composers, the Richmond Times Dispatch writing, “As delightful as the Jupiter Quartet was in the Beethoven, they were awe-inspiring in the Bartók.” The Jupiter String Quartet’s Daniel McDounough will be joined by Deveau and Nuccio for Brahms’ Trio in A Minor for clarinet, cello and piano. 

Sunday, June 19, 5PM: Claremont Trio & Clarinetist, Mark Nuccio

The Claremont Trio performs Martin’s Trio on Irish Folk Songs and Fanny Mendelssohn/Hensel’s Piano Trio in D minor, written for her sister in the last year of the composer’s life. They will be joined by Mark Nuccio, a clarinetist  described by the New York Times as shaping “his phrases beautifully with a rich, expressive tone,” for Messiaen’s Quartet for the End of Time. 

Thursday, June 23, 8PM: Anderson & Roe, Piano Duo Extraordinaire

Greg Anderson and Elizabeth Roe began their musical partnership at Julliard, where they both received their bachelor’s and master’s degrees, and have since toured in the United States and abroad to considerable acclaim. Writes the Star Telegram, “Greg Anderson and Elizabeth Joy Roe captured the spirit of camaraderie while playing at the highest level of artistry.” On June 23, the duo will play music by Brahms, Mozart, Radiohead and more in their first appearance at the Shalin Liu Performance Center. 

Friday, June 24, 8PM: Daedalus String Quartet & Pianist, Andrew Rangell 

The Daedalus, whose style was described by the Seattle Times as “full of verve and energy” and “both incisive and unified,” will perform quartets by Mozart and Richard Wernick. In a rare public performance, Andrew Rangell will play Janacek’s In the Mists, a piano cycle suffused with both loveliness and anguish, written shortly after the death of the composer’s daughter. Rangell and the Deadalus Quartet will also collaborate on Dohnanyi’s Piano Quintet No.2. 

Saturday, June 25, 8PM: Guitarist David Leisner & Friends

The night will feature a mixed ensemble, including David Leisner (“the most painterly of classical guitarists” – San Antonio Express-News), violinst Arnaud Sussmann, violist Yinzi Kong, Julie Albers on cello, and William Ransom on piano. The ensemble will play a variety of works including music by Haug, Schumann and Paganini. 

Sunday, June 26, 5PM: David Finckel & Wu Han Play Beethoven and Brahms

Cellist David Finckel and pianist Wu Han, ranked among the most esteemed classical musicians in the world today, are in high demand year after year among chamber music audiences; the duo appears each season at venues and concert series across the United States, as well as internationally. Said London’s Musical Opinion of their Wigmore Hall debut, “They enthralled both myself and the audience with performances [of] idiomatic command, technical mastery and unsullied integrity of vision.”  

Thursday, July 7, 8PM: The Music of Evan Ziporyn

Raised in a musically ecumenical household in Evanston, Illinois, Evan grew up listening to his father’s violin, his grandmother’s Yiddish Socialist chorus, his mother’s extensive folk & jazz collection, and the sounds of top 40 & Motown on AM radio. The concert will feature Ziporyn, joined by friends from Bang on a Can, as well as other musicians, playing Evan’s original works. 

Friday, July 8, 8PM: St. Petersburg String Quartet

The St. Petersburg will perform quartets by Prokofiev, Shostakovich and more. The ensemble, renowned both in Russia and internationally, is praised by the Minneapolis Star-Tribune, which lauds their, “subtle, carefully mixed colors and precise gradations of dynamics” and “acute sense of rhythm and admirable concern for balance and the articulation of inner voicings.” The St. Petersburg String Quarter will return to the Rockport Chamber Music Festival to play at the Shalin Liu on July 8. 

Saturday, July 9, 8PM: Vassily Primakov and the St. Petersburg String Quartet

Vassily Primakov makes his first appearance at the Rockport Chamber Music Festival, joining the St. Petersburg for an evening of music by Russian composers, as well as an arrangement of Bach’s Chaconne from the Partita in D minor, by Boris Vayner. Says the Johannesburg Press’s Thys Odendaal of the young pianist, “Primakov is so focused in his playing that it sounds as if music just flows through him… one hears the heartbeat of the composer.” This will be the festival’s second night of Russian music featuring the St. Petersburg Quartet. 

Sunday, July 10, 5PM: Red Priest: Venetian Carnival

Says the Pittsburg Post-Gazette of Red Priest, “If the Rolling Stones played recorder, violin, cello and harpsichord and their genre was 17th-century music, they would be the band called Red Priest.” The group, who take their name from “the red priest” Antonio Vivaldi, perform not only with intensity and striking showmanship, but also with technical mastery and superb musicianship. Piers Adams was recently heralded in the Washington Post as “the reigning recorder virtuoso in the world today;” the ensemble, also including violinist David Greenburg, cellist Angela East and harpsichordist David Wright, plays entirely from memory, allowing for the greatest emotive and technical collaboration. 

Monday, July 11, 7:30PM: Red Priest: Bach and the Pirates

Red Priest returns for a second concert. Stolen masterworks and forgotten jewels of the baroque era are performed with swashbuckling virtuosity!  This hugely popular programme includes Vivaldi’s Tempesta di Mare Concerto, a Pirate Suite by Couperin, the ‘Albinoni’ Adagio and works by Bach, Tartini, Simonetti, Leclair, Vitali and Handel. 

Thursday, July 14, 8 PM: Borromeo String Quartet

The Borromeo, a favorite at the Rockport Chamber Music Festival, will return July 14. The group, lauded by Jeffrey Rossman for “their passion, unequaled technical brilliance and complete absorption in the music,” will perform quartets by Mozart, Brewbaker and Debussy. 

Friday, July 15, 8PM: Calmus Ensemble Leipzig

This German a capella quintet won Grand prize at the 2009 Concert Artist Guild Award in NYC. Said the Deseret Morning News in Salt Lake City, “They infuse their singing with wonderful lyricism and exquisite expressiveness, they bring passion to their interpretations and they, quite simply, bring whatever they sing to glorious life.” At their first very concert in Rockport, Calmus will sing music by Reger, Schütz, Brahms, Bobby McFerrin, and Sting, among others. 

Saturday, July 16, 8PM: The Weekend Traveler: Around the World with the New Century Saxophone Quartet

Pack your bags!  The New Century Saxophone Quartet is getting ready to celebrate its 30-year international performing career with a special performance project, “Weekend Traveler.”  This program explores folk music as heard through the ears of Copland, Shostakovich, Piazzolla, and Grainger, and others alongside sophisticated adaptations of original folk music from the United States, Eastern Europe and Asia, Latin America, and the British Isles. The program features the music of composer David Cutler. Says Leidsch Dagblad of the quartet, “The dynamic qualities of the quartet shone through in its unforced subtlety.” The NCSQ will return to Rockport this July 16. 

Sunday, July 17, 7:30PM: RCMF Grand Finale with Pianist, Russell Sherman. 

Celebrated pianist Russell Sherman, whose interpretations “offer a powerful, poetic vision,” (Allan Kozinn – The New York Times) will play works including Liszt’s Sonata in B minor and Schumann’s Fantasy in C major. The Liszt Sonata, at first largely ignored and rejected by critics including Eduard Hanslick, is now widely considered a masterpiece of the Romantic era and the pinnacle of Liszt’s piano composition. 

Friday, July 22, 8 pm: Christian McBride & Inside Straight

One of the leading bassists of our day, Christian McBride has collaborated with such jazz greats as Freddie Hubbard, Ray Brown, McCoy Tyner, Chick Corea, and Herbie Hancock. A consummate entertainer and storyteller known for his warmth and humor, McBride and his quintet perform music from their new CD, “Kind of Brown,” a collection of swing and blues tunes.

Saturday, July 23, 8 pm: George Wein and the Newport All-Stars

Founder of the Newport Jazz Festival, pianist and singer George Wein remains a towering figure on the American jazz scene.  Beloved for his interpretations of both Dixieland and “straight-ahead” jazz, Wein has assembled an all-star band to mark his Rockport Music debut.

Sunday, July 24, 5 pm: Freddy Cole Quartet

The New York Times declared that “Freddy [Cole] has an impeccable sense of swing…he is, overall, the most maturely expressive male jazz singer of his generation, if not the best alive.” The brother of Nat King Cole and the uncle of Natalie Cole, Freddy engages audiences with music that is personal, inspiring, and deeply moving.

Friday, July 29, 8 pm: Jane Monheit

Jazz and contemporary vocalist Jane Monheit has performed at many of the major concert halls, cabarets, and jazz venues around the globe. She has collaborated with such artists as Michael Bublé, Ramsay Lewis, John Pizzarelli, Mark O’Connor, and Terence Blanchard. Jane has received two Grammy Award nominations for recordings made on the Concord label.

Friday, August 5 & 6, 8 pm: Paula Cole

Grammy Award-winning singer and Rockport native Paula Cole took the Boston-area by storm last summer with two sold-out performances at the Shalin Liu Performance Center.  Cole returns for three performances singing such hit songs as “Where Have All the Cowboys Gone?” and “I Don’t Want to Wait.”

Friday, August 12, 8 pm: Guy Mendilow Band

Colorful tales of sailors seduced by sirens at sea, murder, fantastic dreams, and the treachery of kings and queens abound in a program created by the Guy Mendilow Band. Discover ancient music of the Sephardic people, infused with the sounds and cultures from the places Mendilow and his band call home, from Israel and Brazil to Japan and the United States. 

Sunday, August 21, 2 & 5 pm: A Celtic Celebration with Hanneke Cassel and Friends

Celtic violinist and Rockport Music favorite, Hanneke Cassel returns with violinists Sarah Naylor Macleod, Andrea Beaton, and Kimberly Fraser, cellist Natalie Haas and guitarist Keith Murphy for Celtic-tune-filled concerts that include contemporary and traditional music from Scotland, Cape Breton, and more.

Friday, August 26 & 27, 8 pm: Tom Rush

Tom Rush is known to audiences around the world for his distinctive guitar style, wry humor and warm, expressive voice. His music and his songs evoke everything from rib-aching laughter, to passion or sweet melancholy. With a voice and manner that “gives listeners the impression they’re old friends listening in on a musical conversation,” (Montreal Gazette), Rush is an engaging performer both of his own work and that of other song-writers.

Sunday, August 28, 5 pm: Grace Kelly and Phil Woods

18-year-old Boston native Grace Kelly is the youngest musician to be named the “Alto Saxophonist Rising Star” by Downbeat Magazine.  With a busy touring and recording schedule, Grace makes a return engagement to the Shalin Liu Performance Center with the legendary Phil Woods, the three-time Grammy Award winner, whose six-decade-long career helped define the art of jazz saxophone performance in America.

Essex Heritage and the National Park Service are pleased to honor the 2011 Heritage Hero Award recipients. Mark your calendars to join us on Thursday evening, May 19th at the Danversport Yacht Club, Danvers, when honors and accolades are bestowed on Dr. Wayne Burton, President of the North Shore Community College, The Honorable Kimberley Driscoll, Mayor of Salem, and Mr. Wayne Marquis, Town Manager of Danvers. They are widely recognized as dedicated public servants whose individual and collective contributions have fostered regional initiatives that overcome traditional barriers, promote collaborations across communities and help to advance our quality of life in the Heritage Area.

The awards will be presented within a tribute dinner format, with the opportunity to celebrate the honoree’s history of collaborative regional leadership, as well as share recollections and inspiring moments with an expanded circle of friends and supporters. Cocktail Hour will begin at 6:00 PM. Dinner with program will commence at 7:00 PM. Reservations can be made at www.essexheritage.org/heroes.

Proceeds from the event (ticket sales/sponsorship) help sustain the many programs of the Essex National Heritage Commission which support heritage non-profit organizations and municipalities in Essex County.

The Essex Heritage Hero Award Dinner is an annual celebration that recognizes the special contributions of individuals or groups across Essex County whose passions embody the mission of Essex Heritage – to protect and preserve the region’s rich historic, cultural and natural resources.

National Mom’s Nite Out is the first nationally organized celebration of motherhood Intended to bring together today’s moms, physically and virtually, The National Mom’s Nite Out will unite over 150 social media groups, companies, local playgroups, mommy bloggers and mother social networks in giving moms a well deserved night off.

Northshore Mall’s National Mom’s Nite Out event is Thursday, May 5th, 4pm – 7pm, Mall-Wide! Please join us for a fun-filled night of pampering, menu sampling, makeovers, live music, fashion tips, wine tasting, cocktails, & mommy mocktails! The first 200 attendees will receive a complimentary swag bag just for showing up! Visit facebook.com/NorthshoreMall or twitter.com/NorthshoreMall for more details!

When: Thursday, May 5, 2011 (Thursday before Mother’s Day)

Where: North Shore Mall, Danvers, MA

Visit one of 17 Salem Health and Wellness related businesses for great promotions and discounts May 1- 7, 2011 as part of the second annual Salem Health & Wellness Week. Organized by Salem Main Streets, this year’s event will give you the opportunity to “refocus on your health and exercise routine,” explains Salem Main Streets Manager, Jennifer Bell. “It’s a great time to shake off the winter doldrums and get outside (or inside) and try something new!” Visit any of the seventeen participating businesses for special discounts, promotions, and to enter in-house raffles. Each business will be giving away raffle prizes so the more businesses you visit, the more chances you have to win! Pick up a Health and Wellness postcard at any of the participating businesses and/or in local shops in and around downtown to bring with you on your visit.

Participating businesses include: A Sacred Place Wellness Center, Aleris Dental, B&S Fitness Programs, B&S Sport Science, Body and Soul Massage and Wellness Center, The City of Salem Park, Recreation, and Community Services Department, DWMMA Dragon Within Mixed Martial Arts, Extra Effort Fitness, Green Tea Yoga, Healthworks Fitness Center, Lasting Impressions Skin and Nail Boutique, Laura Lanes Skin Care, LivingWell, Salem Chiropractic Center, Sankofa Massage & Bodywork, Susan MacFarlane Massage Therapy and the Wicked Running Club. Be sure to check out the Salem Main Streets website for the latest information and schedule of events: salemsmainstreets.org.

In addition to in-house raffles, each business donated a free service to be given away at the end of the week. Don’t miss out on the chance to win personal training sessions, facials, massages, martial arts classes, boot camp sessions and much more! Salem’s Health and Wellness Week is a must for everyone who endured this year’s snowy (and seemingly unending) winter. Refocus, re-energize, and renew that devotion to your overall health and wellness. Visit www.salemmainstreets.org for more information and a list of events and participating businesses.

The Marblehead Rotary Club is pleased to announce that it will hold its Annual Easter Egg Hunt this year. on Easter Sunday, April 24th.  The hunt will be held on the hill behind Seaside Park Marblehead, MA and will start at 1:30pm sharp.  The hunt is for children under the age of 10 and a special area will be for children under 5.  Bring your baskets to hold the eggs that will be available!

Last week, nearly 200 women from all over Essex County attended the third annual “ Power of the Purse” fundraising eventand purse raffle at Brookwood School, in Manchester. Proceeds from the event will help to fund the Women’ s Fund of Essex County special projects and grant awards to Essex County non-profit agencies for programs that benefit women and girls. Special thanks to the generous donors of the fabulous purses and bags and delicious catered hors d’ oeuvres!

The Women’s Fund of Essex County was founded in 2003 to promote philanthropy and to raise and distribute funds to organizations that provide opportunities and solutions for women and girls in need throughout Essex County. To date, The Fund has awarded over $400,000 in grants to Essex County non-profit organizations. The Women’s Fund is a collaborative fund of The Essex County Community Foundation located in Danvers, MA.

For more information, please visit www.thewomensfundec.org

All law-abiding and loyal citizens are urged to be vigilant and alert to the presence on your coast of the weatherly, fast, and heavily armed Clipper Schooner Lynx. The 122-foot square top sail schooner Lynx will be sailing intoMarblehead for the first time on Wednesday, May 18th at 4:00 pm. Join the flotilla as she fires a salute from her main battery of 6-pounder carronade deck guns upon her grand entrance into Marblehead. “We are very excited for our visit to Marblehead, and want to thank wholeheartedly our Hosts, Marblehead Chamber of Commerce and its Board of Directors, The Town of Marblehead, The Harbor Master, The Landing Restaurant, Glovers Regiment, USCG, Shuttle service and their sponsors. “It is through their generous support that Marblehead residents will have the chance to walk the decks and step back in time aboard Lynx, America’s National Treasure.” said Jeffrey Woods, Director Operations for Lynx Educational Foundation. Marblehead Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Ann Marie Casey continued, “We look at this as a great opportunity to celebrate our maritime heritage here in Marblehead and as an opportunity to stimulate the local economy. This will be a great start to our tourism season.” The celebrated War of 1812 privateer square top sail schooner has arrived on the East Coast from Hawaii & California and is scheduled for a five-year mission along the East Coast of the United States, the Great Lakes and Canada, where she will be participating in the celebration of the 200th anniversary of the War of 1812 and the Star-Spangled Banner.

The 114 ton Lynx is an interpretation of a privateer or naval schooner from the War of 1812. She is fitted with period ordnance and flies pennants and flags from the 1812 era making her one of the first ships to defend our freedom. The Lynx crew wear period dress and operate the ship in keeping with the maritime traditions of early 19th Century America. Lynx represents a “letter of Marque” Baltimore Clipper, considered to be among the finest privateer schooners ever built. Because of their swiftness and maneuverability, these ships were most effective as blockade runners and offensive weapons of war. Students and adults will recognize the War of 1812 as a significant element of American heritage and as a turning point in the development of our national identity. The educational early American history and science programs that are taught aboard Lynx meet specific State Standards.

The Privateer Lynx will be offering Educational Public Ship Tours and Sail Adventures beginning on May 19 thru May 22. Climb aboard and step back in time as you relive history and feel the adventure. Join the crew and hoist the sails, steer the ship, fire the main battery of six-pounder carronades and experience first hand life aboard a traditional, square topsail schooner. Get ready to rumble as you and your kids take part in this unique, interactive sailing adventure. On decks and below Lynx evokes the life, spirit, and atmosphere of a vanished age of sail. Lynx is available for school field trips, private charters, team building, and receptions. The Privateer Lynx was hired to train the cast and crew of the hit movie Pirates of the Caribbean.

Lynx Schedule: May 18 – 22

 Wednesday May 18, 2011- 4PM – Grand Arrival in Marblehead Harbor with ships guns ablaze.

 May 19 – May 22: Ship Tours – 10 AM – 1 PM, Public Adventure Sail – 2 – 4 PM

On Thursday, April 14, 2011, at 6pm, Newburyport resident Áine Greaney will read from her just-published book “Dane Lessons”.

Dance Lessons is the story of Ellen Boisvert, who bumps into an old friend a year after her husband’s death in a sailing accident off Martha’s Vineyard. In this chance encounter, she discovers that her immigrant husband of almost fifteen years was not an orphan after all. Instead, his aged mother Jo is alive and residing on the family’s isolated farm in the west of Ireland.

Faced with news of her mother-in-law incarnate, the thirty-nine-year-old American prep school teacher decides to travel to Ireland to investigate the truth about her husband Fintan and why he kept his family’s existence a secret for so many years.

Between Jo’s hilltop farm and the lakeside village of Gowna, Ellen begins to uncover the mysteries of her Irish husband’s past and the cruelties and isolation of his rural childhood. Ellen also stumbles upon Fintan’s long-ago romance with a local village woman, with whom he had a daughter, Cat. Cat is now fourteen and living with her mother in London. As Ellen reconciles her troubled relationship with Fintan, she discovers a way to heal the wounds of the past.

Deeply rooted in the Irish landscape and sensibility, Dance Lessons is a powerful story of loss, regret, and transformation.

Born and raised in County Mayo, Áine Greaney is a writer and editor living on Boston’s North Shore. She is the author of the novel The Big House and the short story collection The Sheep Breeders Dance. In addition, she has written several award-winning short stories and numerous feature articles for the Irish Independent, theIrish Voice, Creative Nonfiction, and the Literary Review, among others.

Established in 1998, the award-winning River’s Edge is located at 15 Market Street in downtown Ipswich. The newly-expanded Book Nook at River’s Edge offers an eclectic collection of quirky and classic books. For more information about the store and upcoming events, please call (978)356-2363, email Paul Allen-Webber at paul@riversegdegift.com, or visit www.riversedgegift.com.

On Thursday, March 24th, the Marblehead Chamber of Commerce welcomed new Chamber member Bliss Home with a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at their location, 152 Washington Street, Marblehead.  Owner Panamai Manadee, along with family and staff,  was on site to greet guests and offer treats and tours of Marblehead’s newest home gifts and accessories store.

Panamai Manadee, a North Shore resident, moved the boutique to Marblehead after 8 years on Boston’s famed Newbury Street.  “I am delighted to be in Marblehead.  The town’s charm is unparalleled,” says Manadee.

About Bliss Home

Founded in Boston in 1997, Bliss Home is located at 152 Washington Street in Old Town Marblehead.  One of the Boston area’s premier design stores, Bliss Home is a seven-time winner of Boston Magazine’s Best of Boston award.   Since 2002, Bliss Home has featured an Alessi in store boutique with one of the largest collections of this Italian brand on the East Coast.  The boutique features lines such as Bernardaud Limoges, Juliska, and Nambe.  Bliss Home is open Tuesday through Saturday from 11:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m., and noon – 5:00 p.m. on Sunday. Interior design services and bridal registry are available.

For more information about Bliss Home, call 781-631-2474, email email@blisshome.com or visit www.blisshome.com Bliss Home is located at 152 Washington Street, Marblehead, MA

April 17th…..Ipswich will be rocking again. A 5+ hour benefit– all musicians are donating their time so that all money raised goes to Global Giving for the Japan Relief. $10 at the door. Local talen plus surprise guests…and BIG hearts. From Rock to Reggae….at the Town Hall, not the library.

On Saturday, April 2nd from 6 – 9pm , Salem Massachusetts will host the fourth annual SALEM SPRING FLING: A GARDEN OF EARTHLY DELIGHTS presented by Pamplemousse at Old Town Hall. The Festival, which is fashioned after the Bacchanalia – a religious festival in honor of the god of wine, Bacchus – will kick New Englanders out of a long hibernation and jumpstart Spring by celebrating the Arts and indulging in craft beer, fine wine, and mouth watering food from North Shore restaurateurs.

Historically, the Bacchanalia was held in the Spring and priests and priestesses adorned with garlands of ivy would carry wine, honey, and cakes throughout Rome, celebrating and expressing themselves freely through music and pleasure.

This modern day version – Spring Fling – will feature a tasting of craft beers and beautiful wines from around the world. Truly a party fit for Bacchus! Guests will sample fine wines from Pamplemousse and Market Wine & Spirits and craft beer from Magic Hat, Harpoon, Cape Ann, Mayflower, Cody, Narragansett, Ipswich, Stone Cat, Clown Shoes and Left Hand Brewing.

Spring Fling will kick off Salem’s Restaurant Week with tastings from Sixty2 on Wharf, Gulu-Gulu Café, Café Polonia, Greenland Café, Tavern In the Square, Victoria Station, The Lobster Shanty, Upper Crust Pizzeria, Comida, Lakay Island and more. Enjoy coffee and ice cream from Café Valverde and Ben & Jerry’s. Salem Arts Association members will be on hand with fabulous hand crafted works and Art Throb will be launching their new art magazine! Groove to the Beantown funk of Big Ol’ Dirty Bucket and their unique blend of Funk, Rock, R&B, Soul, Jam Grooves, Trip Hop, Latin Step, and Blues.

Meet familiar characters from myth and legend and enjoy the goddesses and nymphs that wander the “Garden of Earthly Delights.” Seek out The Oracle of Delphi to hear your fortune. Roman attire is encouraged! Experience the intoxicating power of this celebration on April 2nd from 6 – 9pm at Old Town Hall on the Pedestrian Mall in Salem, MA.

Tickets are $25 in advance, $30 at the door and are available at salemspringfling.com, in person at Pamplemousse, Salem Cycle, Roost and The Picklepot or by calling 978-745-2900.

Salem Spring Fling is presented by Pamplemousse (Purveyor of Fine Wines, Beer, Kitchen and Homegoods) in association with Magic Hat Brewing, Salem Chamber of Commerce, the Salem Arts Association and Art Throb.

On April 30, residents of Peabody and surrounding communities will be able to get their environmental, recycling, gardening and energy savings questions answered for free at Peabody’s celebration of Earth Day, GreenFest.

From 9 am- 2 pm at the Peter Torigian Community Life Center in Peabody, GreenFest will highlight local and regional “green” businesses and organizations displaying their products and services.

Experts from renewable energy and energy conservation groups will also be available to discuss ways to save energy and money.

“GreenFest will be a first for Peabody,” said event chair Russ Eckel. “The focus of the event is dollars and cents – how we can save money while helping the environment and the resources around us.”

GreenFest was created by GreenPeabody, Peabody’s energy and resource conservation committee, and is co-hosted with the Peabody Area Chamber of Commerce.  It has been endorsed by Mayor Michael Bonfanti, along with all the members of the Peabody City Council, who recognize the growth of the green economy on the North Shore.

An electronics recycling collection area will accept items such as TVs, computers, printers, monitors and more so the items can be properly recycled and hazardous materials removed. An $8 cash-only fee will be charged for each. Very large items may be assessed an additional fee.

Old cell phones will be collected separately by GreenPeabody and donated to Safe Haven Shelter, a resource for battered women. A “Shoe Bank” will be set up so visitors can donate used shoes and sneakers as part of a college student’s project. Visitors are being asked to participate in the Plant and Seed Exchange, where they can bring an item and take home a different item for their home garden.

A special area will be set up for children’s activities, which will be coordinated by the Peabody Veterans High School Environmental Club, in conjunction with the Peabody Public Library. Refreshments will be available for purchase.

Prospective exhibitors and speakers can contact Deanne Healy at the Peabody Area Chamber of Commerce at (978) 531-0384 or by emailing pcc@peabodychamber.com. Sponsors for the event are JRM Hauling & Recycling, Weston & Sampson, Peabody Municipal Light Plant, Energi Holdings Inc., and Wood Trucking. More information about GreenFest is available at GreenPeabody on Facebook and you can follow them on Twitter @green_peabody.

In Saugus, in its third year, the North Shore Musical Children’s Theatre proudly presents two popular performances in the month of April. On Sunday, April 10th. at 2pm, Rhode Island’s award-winning, non-profit, Kaleidoscope Children’s Theatre presents Goldilocks and the Three Bears for one show only! Then, on Sunday, April 17th. at 2pm., New England’s own Tanglewood Marionettes present Sleeping Beauty! Joining Sleeping Beauty will be singer/songwriter Marcy Gregoire for this multi-art family show. For further information please visit www.kaleidoscopechildrenstheatre.com, www.tanglewoodmarionettes.com and www.underthetreearts.com anytime.

The North Shore Musical Children’s Theatre is located at 466 Central St., Saugus, MA. 01906 All seats are reserved and tickets will be on-sale at the door on the day of the show. The theatre offers free tickets to Military Families. For more information please call 1-781-230-EXPO.

The theatre provides free healthy snacks at all shows and a free cast meet and greet, so don’t forget your camera!

Back by Popular Demand, The Trustees of Reservations to Host 2nd Annual Sustainable Seaside Wedding Show At Castle Hill on The Crane Estate, Sunday, April 10, 2011

WHAT: The Trustees of Reservations invites couples to be wed, event planners, and the surrounding community members to attend their second annual Seaside Wedding Show at The Great House on Castle Hill located on The Crane Estate in Ipswich, MA. A National Historic Landmark, Castle Hill on The Crane Estate is one of the most sought after wedding venues in the Northeast. The elegant architecture, panoramic ocean views, newly restored Grand Allee, manicured landscapes, and award winning Inn at Castle Hill on The Crane Estate, offer a complete wedding package for couples who are looking for a special place to create their wedding memories.

Attended by over 300 last year, this year’s Seaside Wedding Show will again feature over sixty hand selected vendors who will share their professional expertise, and offer options for choosing an eco-conscious wedding. Attendees will be able to sample food from caterers using local farm produce, learn about ways to conserve resources from florists who use biodegradable materials and locally grown flowers, select design companies offering invitations printed on recycled paper, and view couture gowns made of natural, eco-fabrics or locally manufactured. Guests will learn how to create their ideal wedding day from food to spa luxuries, and choose sustainable options at the same time. Better choices for the planet, better choices for current and future generations. Join TTOR in their mission to conserve land for everyone, forever.

WHERE: Castle Hill on The Crane Estate is located at 290 Argilla Road in Ipswich, MA. For directions and or more information, please visit www.craneestate.org or call 978-356-4351 ext. 4025.

WHEN: Sunday, April 10th from 12 Noon to 3:00 PM.

HOW: Purchase tickets at www.craneestate.org to be eligible for the GRAND PRIZE drawing: two glorious nights at The Inn at Castle Hill on The Crane Estate (an over $900 value).Visit www.theinnatcastlehill.com for more information. Tickets: $5 for Trustees members; $10 for non-members; and $15 for all at the door.